Happy Mother's Day 2007
Acorn readers offer their compliments on Sunday, May 13, to some of the greatest moms in the world

Hi, Mom, the most thing I love about you is that we have a lot of girls' days. We go to the movies, bookstore, mall and teddy bear picnic. It is really fun.

One of my memories with you is when I got my ears pierced, it really hurt but you helped me.

I love you so much, I cannot help myself when you are gone. I love you soooooooooooooo much. I cannot wait till another Girls' Day. Larissa Tawil, 7, Thousand Oaks

An abused child, Julie Wood vowed to not only give her children something she never had, but spread her abundance of love to as many families as possible. She retired from Honey Tree Preschool after 20 years.

We still run into families whose lives she has touched, if not one of her former students, then a child that played community sports. She received recognition for her involvement, but more important to her were hugs from children she would run into in her daily life.

Julie Wood is special to thousands of families in the community, none more than her own. Courtney A. Jenson Thousand Oaks

My mom is special because she wakes me up every morning, makes me delicious meals, gets me to school, is caring, is nice, buys me toys and she loves me.

Daniel Salvagni, 9

Mom is nice, just like spice! Mom is sweet, just like a treat! Mom is always right, and never fights! She'll always share, with lots of care, too bad I won't share! My spice, my treat, my care and that all equals my Mom! Crosley Kudla-Williams Newbury Park, third grade

She is everybody's chicken soup. And my best friend.

Mom takes care of everybody around her but herself. She has taken in sick relatives and friends and nursed them back to health.

Drove to Arizona. To take care of my sisters, seven kids for a month when she was sick.

Gets up early to help get my other sister who lives across the street and feeds, dresses, drives four kids to school.

She shows no sign of slowing down any time soon. If I need anything, she is there.

Barbara Sparks should be awarded "Mom of the Year." Darrel Sparks Thousand Oaks

Mom is beautiful and she is like a butterfly. My mom takes love from her heart and gives it to me. My mom takes really good care of me and helps me do stuff. She plays sports and games with me. I am happy that I have my mom and she is the greatest.

She makes me good food and helps me with homework. She goes to my baseball games and says nice things to everybody like "Go Mariners, good job." My mom is a good mom to me and I will always be her son. She is nice to everybody too. I love you mom! Sam Herbert, 5, Newbury Park

She called me the other day from 3,000 miles away to ask me a question. "Is there anything that you resent me for?" Caught off guard, I answered that I couldn't think oanything in particular.

Weeks have gone by- I still haven't been able to come up with anything. The truth is, my mommy has done everything right. She has taught me strength, intelligence, integrity and love. She has taught me how to cure any ill with laughter.

I love her with all of my heart, and I am unspeakably proud to be her daughter. Melinda Sue Rodriguez Thousand Oaks

"Mum," thank you for being such a great Mother to meloving, dedicated, self-sacrificing and caring.

We've had our ups and downs; yet I appreciate how much you've put into our relationship, especially over the last few years.

Thank you for that. I hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day! LoveJoey

My Mom is special because she always takes care of the ones around her first. She is a very lucky Grandma as she lives with the two most precious and beautiful little girls in the world, Lexy and Marissa.

She gives them lunch money every day and takes them to their baseball and softball practices. She cooks dinnefor us and makes us all laugh. She is a very special lady and my girls and I love her so very much. She is truly one in a million.

I love my Mom and my girls adore their Grandma Jean. Ed Mehler Thousand Oaks

How do you thank someone who has taken you from infancy to adulthood? My mother has been a single Mom since I was 5, bunever wavered in her love and affection for both my sister and I. As long as I can remember, my Mother worked two jobs to keep food in our stomachs, a roof over our head and clothes on our back.

Thanks Mom, you've made me see what compassion is all about and how to show that compassion towards othersThanks to you I've become a well adjusted, self employed, stable human being.

Trina Our amazing Mother, Robyn Grenn, deserves great recognition for being so wonderful in everything she does for our entire family. The way she smiles, her positive attitude and insight to life constantly uplifts those who surround herHer decorative dinners and family gatherings have a speciatouch which makes them second to none.

As our Mom and best friend, you are truly the greatestWe love you so much and we are so proud to have you as our Mom. Happy Mother's Day to you from your entire family. Scott Hanke Thousand Oaks

Mom, you are the best mom in the world! You always make me good food and you make sure I do good in schoolThank you for helping at my school, and letting me have play dates with my friends! You are a No. 1 great mom!!! Karen Guzman Thousand Oaks

My mom, Bernice Sedlik, is a wonderful woman and am extremely fortunate to have her in my life. After staying at home and raising four children, my mom went back to college and earned her master's degree in language and speech development. She worked in the school district as a speech pathologist and then opened up her own thriving practice.

In addition to her long and successful career, my mom travels with my dad all over the world and has several interesting hobbies. My mom is an inspiration to everyone around her and I love her very much.

Sheri Margolis

Sylvia Becerra. That's the name of my mother. She's the most wonderful, courageous and loving mother you will ever meet. She has overcome the hardest battle there is, breascancer. This experience itself shows her hard work, love and passion.

I love and admire her more than words can explain. That's why I'm so happy that this day was made- to take today and honor my loving mother. I love you mom. There's noenough words or days in this lifetime to show and tell you how very much you have influenced and showed me how to be the mother you are today. Go Chiva.

Natalie Becerra

My mom is the most selfless person I know. Divorced in the early '60s, she learned to be a welder and bought ouhome completely on her own. Being without a dad, she worked two jobs to keep me in summer camp so I could learn how to ride horses, hone camping skills and learn abouother "guy stuff." To this day she continues with her "servant's

heart," providing most of the daily care for my grandmotherwho is well into her 90s! She has always led by exampleand gives encouragement to many people around her. MomI love everything about you! Bob Grandchamp Thousand Oaks

She went through labor once and the adoption process five times. She homeschooled almost all of us. She taught us how to spell, she taught us how to walk. She taught us about history, she taught us good morals. She helped us learn math and the girls how to sew. She organizes closets and attends our activities.

She's held me through my hard times and celebrated birthdays. She's taken pictures for prom and planned my sister's wedding. She counsels me when I need it, and makes me laugh a lot. She's everything wonderful and more. She's my best friend. Amanda Packard, 18, Thousand Oaks

Our 82-year-old mother is the greatest Mom. She takes great care of her eight children and raises them well. She also self sacrifices and reserves the very best for her children. A very motherly loving unselfish act that is hard to match. She teaches us from right and wrong, sometimes with emotional tears and sadness, but always with warming love.

We are the luckiest children in the whole wide world, to have a mother like our Mom. We love our Mom and we treat her every day as Mother's Day. Mrs. Lu's children Newbury Park

My mom does everything around the house. She is supposed to work eight hours at work but she works 10 hours on average. When she picks me up from school, she is stressed out and doesn't usually have a good day. When I get home, she cleans the house and sometimes she cooks. She even works her job from home.

She had to travel to different offices. I couldn't count how many. She takes care of me. My mom's name is Mary Hale. Mitchell Brum Newbury Park

My mother is the No. 1 Mom is the whole wide world. She takes me to the park, playing, swimming, tubing, and best of all, shopping. She also helps me with my everyday homework.

I love my Mom and she loves me. Michelle Chau, 8, Newbury Park

My mom is the best! She is always by my side. She encourages me when I'm nervous to do a show. She also brought me to this world. I know my mom yells at me sometimes, but I know she loves me, and I love her, too! Happy Mother's Day, Mom!!!! I luv u!!! Valerie Lawton Thousand Oaks

My mom is special because she is a strong, steadfast and loving woman. Throughout her lifetime she has experienced many ups and downs, as everyone has, but during those "down times," she never truly complained or blamed others for her situation.

My mom has always managed to pull herself up, dust herself off and carry on selflessly!

I can only hope that one day I become even half the woman she is today- that would be incredible! I love you mom, Happy Mother's Day. Nancy Thousand Oaks

When my father died, my brother and I were very young. It wasn't until I grew older that I could truly appreciate how truly overwhelming and frightening it must have been for her to face raising us on her own. She never made us feel unloved or like a burden. My brother and I grew up knowing and believing we were the most important people in her life. Even to this day she continues to make us feel loved and wanted.

I would like to thank my mother for truly being the best mother and remind her of how much I truly love her. Sheryl Bahr Newbury Park

My Mom, Avis Brimhall, is like sunshine. When I bring the kids over to play at grandma's house, she opens the door and squeals with delight! She gives us the best hugs. She makes us feel like we are celebrities. With mom around, days are brighter. Growing up, I always felt so safe and loved. Among so many wonderful things, Mom, with Dad, would gather us around for family night every Monday and teach us about God and Christ and the blessings of the faithful. We felt the Lord's love through her. She's fantastic! She's the best! Michelle B. Cooley Thousand Oaks A sentimental occasion to praise all the moms who are 'No. 1' in the hearts of their loved ones

My mom is the greatest because she does practically everything with me.

Sometimes after school I have karate and she asks me if I want to go or not! She helps me with homework questions. I really love my mother! Brett Kallman Thousand Oaks

Mom is special to me because she takes care of me and my sister. She is giving me a good future! I will love her until fish walk on land! I love you, mom!!! Trevor Odell Thousand Oaks

My mom is special to me because if it wasn't for her I wouldn't be alive! She lets me do a lot of things that other kids aren't allowed to do, for instance playing sports and committing to travel sports. She is also very kind and loving. I love you, mom! Samantha Fairweather Thousand Oaks

Mom you are special to me because you are so nice and great! You are the best mom! You take great care of me, Brian and Jennifer. I love you! Amy Trephan Thousand Oaks

My mom is the greatest! She is nice, sweet and great in every way! You are a terrific and fabulous mom! I love you! Megan A. Watson Thousand Oaks

My mom is so special to me because she takes me to the park so I can ride my skateboard. She also helps me with my homework, and plays kickball with me. I love you, mom! Bogdan Kusnierz Thousand Oaks

I love my mom because she helps me with math and other homework. My mom teaches me the computer and makes me great meals! She loves me, my sister and everybody in my family. She is the greatest! I love you, mom! James Owen Thousand Oaks

My mom is the greatest because she helps me with homework and she goes out shopping and buys me a lot of shoes and stuff! She takes me to a lot of places, too! She plays computer games with me, too! Mom, you are so cool and I love you very very much! Morgan Foster Thousand Oaks

Mom, I love you and appreciate you so much! You are always kind to me and it's fun when we go out shopping! You always buy me the cutest clothes! I just can't tell you how much I love you! Happy Mother's Day! Taylor Macdonald Thousand Oaks

Mom, you are always nice and caring to me. You drive me to school every day and anywhere else I need to go. Thanks for buying me cool stuff for my room and taking me to the movies. You are the greatest mom in the world! I love you! Happy Mother's Day! Carson Arnett Thousand Oaks

I really love my mom because she lets me play video games after I do my work and lets me have my friends stay at my house for a sleep over. She comes to my baseball games and always cheers for me! My mom is the best mom ever! Happy Mother's Day! Enrique Garcia Thousand Oaks

I love my mom! She is special to me because she loves and cares for me, and she is fun to be with. My mom helps me do my homework. I think my mom is doing a great job! Alec Proudfit Thousand Oaks

I love my mom because she takes good care of me! She is always buying me clothes and toys! She helps me with my homework and tucks me into bed at night. I really appreciate her! She's the nicest person I know!! Happy Mother's Day! Alyssa Rothermel Thousand Oaks

My mom is the greatest because she makes really good cookies and she lets me have play dates. She really cares about me and I really appreciate her! She also buys me video games! She is very nice and a very, very, very good mom! I love you, mom! Brandon Healey Thousand Oaks

I love my mom because she buys me many things. She helps me with my homework and gives me medicine when I'm sick. She takes me to the park, beach, school, and to my soccer and football practices and games. She is always there for me! I love you, mom, very much! Uzziel Vazquez Thousand Oaks

The best thing about having a mom is that she'll play with you, take care of you, and if you didn't have a mom, you wouldn't even be born! The best thing about my mom is she will cuddle with me! She's always there to help me. My mom is the best mom in the whole world! I love you, mom! Dawson Waggoner Thousand Oaks

My mom is the greatest! She is so nice and she takes me shopping and buys me lots of stuff! She teaches me how to spell and write better. She takes me on lots of trips like, Disneyworld, and Hawaii! Mom, you are the best! Happy Mother's Day! Kaylee Lance Thousand Oaks

My mom is nice and she helps me with my homework. I love her cookies that she makes because they are soooo good! When I ask to have playdates she usually says "yes." See, I told you she is nice. She is a very very good mommy! I also think that she is the best mom in the world! I love you, mom! Billie Featherston Thousand Oaks

I really love my mom because she helps me with my homework when I am confused. She also makes really good food! She drives me to school every day and always keeps my clothes clean. My mom always makes me feel better when I am sad. She is happy for me when I get the oneminute math test problems correct. I love you, mom, and I hope you have a Happy Mother's Day! Mikayla Kirby Thousand Oaks

My mom is the greatest because she helps me with my homework and she plays with me. I think she is very funny and always makes me laugh. For my birthday she gets me whatever I want, no matter what it costs! I love you, mom, very, very much! Margaret Smith Thousand Oaks

My mom is special because she buys me toys, books and takes me on trips. She also lets me watch TV and play with my friends. She also took me to Disneyland and we had so much fun! I love you, mom! Samuel Scimouni Thousand Oaks

I love you mom because you are nice to me and sometimes you cook my favorite food! You always take good care of me and you take me to the park when I want to go there. To me, you are the greatest mom in the world! Daniel Leyva Thousand Oaks

I love my mom because she plays with me. We like to play board games like Sorry. My mom helps me with my homework and drives me to school. She lets Danielle take me to the movies. I love my mom a lot!! Emilia Boultbee Thousand Oaks

My mom is special because she helps me with my homework. She gives me $8 every week for my allowance.She is really a great and awesome mom! Mom, I love you and hope you have a Happy Mother's Day! Cara Grubel Thousand Oaks

I've been here for four weeks with my husband to learn English from Korea and stayed at a home-stay house. My host-mother is my other mom who God send me. My mom passed away when I was 18 years old and I made efforts to forget the sadness and her absence.

She is serving for us not only just responsibility but also true heart. I don't want to just say she's absolutely kind and nice person.

I think she's considering me as her daughter. I can realize it whenever we hug and she advises me how to live uprightly in my life. If my mother was alive now, that would be really what I want her. God the Father send me another mom. I really appreciate, I love you, mom. Heejung Kim (American nickname Rachel) Thousand Oaks

Our mom is not just any ordinary mom. She is the greatest mom ever. She's our chauffeur, calendar and activity coordinator. Our mom is always there to comfort us, take us out, or just sit down and have a nice laugh. If there's an event, she's 100 percent willing to give up whatever she's doing to come and be with us. She teaches us right from wrong, and helps us with our homework.

However, the main reason our mom is the best is because she's there for us when we need her and gives us all the love in the world. Brian, 14, and Adam Ginell, 12 Thousand Oaks

My mother is the best mom in the world. She puts up with all my weirdness and is the strongest woman I know. She's so supportive and a very dedicated mother. She's always there for me and even though we fight sometimes she's still the most wonderful and amazing person ever.

There are no amount of words to describe how amazing of a mother she is and how lucky I am to have her. I don't know where I would be without her. She is my best friend, my hero and, most of all, my mom. I love you, Mom. Brandie Warr Thousand Oaks

Mom tried to nurture well-mannered children. Raised to enjoy reading and music, she was illprepared for two boys, both athletic and hard-nosed. Her valiant (and futile) attempts to outlaw football, teach piano and legislate milk from a glass spoke to her love and desire to protect and raise polite citizens. Mom gave space to grow, yet watched vigilantly as both sons took the field and later went to war.

After 30 years, she remains our sounding board for life's most important issues: ethics, compassion and forgiveness. Mom seldom got her way, but she has shaped us nonetheless. Geoffrey and Edward Eich Thousand Oaks

My mother is very special to me! She passed away last August unexpectedly. At first it was very hard to accept that mom was no longer here. I still pretended that she was with me. I now realize that she is still with me, in spirit. Mom is very special because although she is gone from this earth, she continues to be by my side!

Thanks, mom, for helping me to stay strong! Tami Fletcher Newbury Park

You are such a wonderful mom. All the little things you do all add up making you 100 percent perfect. You are loving, admiring, kind, caring, and so much more, making you so lovable. You are just right for me. I hope these few words tell you how much I love you! Have a wonderful Mother's Day! XOXOXO Love,

Madeline

You are the best mom anyone could wish for. I love you very much, so much that I am actually writing this for you so that it will be printed in the Acorn. Happy Mother's Day to a very, very special mother. Love,

Isabella

My Mom is the best mom in the whole wide world. She is so easy to talk to, and has a bigger heart than anyone I know. It is very difficult to sum up how much my mom does for me and how much I love and appreciate her in only 100 words. No words can ever prove to her how much I love and appreciate her. She has always been there for me no matter what it is. She supports me in everything I do; she comes to all of my swim meets, and sometimes she even cleans my room if it is a wreck. Mom, I love you so much! Zoey Although you are far, far away,can honestly tell you as I age, and watch you age, you have nevebeen nearer to my heart and couldn't love you more, todayMother's Day and every day. I love you and thank you for giving me reason to revel yearly on Mother'Day. Your son,

Matthew Brownie, you are the greatesmother because of the example you set every day. To attempt thiin 100 words is inconceivable. Thais why I understand, and am grateful for, and ultimately define yougrandeur as a mother to be ineffable- plain and simple. With adoring love,

LS

My mother is special because she helps me with everything. She helps me get my snack when I'm hungry. She helps me with my homework. She helps me with my piano practicing, especially whenam frustrated. She tells me to play my right hand only first, and then play my left hand only. Then she tells me to put two hands togetherand play one line at a time until can play it very well. She helps me to practice again and again so thaI can play the whole song togetherI'm really happy that finally I could play a beautiful song. My mommy is always so helpful, and I love hevery much. Claire Liu First grade, Weathersfield Elementary

I think my mom is special because one day she found three squirrels in our yard who fell from the tree. She called my dad and my brother and we went online to find out what to do. Then she allowed us to keep them, bought formulaand fed them for many weeks. Iwas so much fun! The squirrelwere so cute, we played with them

a lot. We even brought them to ouschool. When they got big and strong, we had to bring them to a wildlife rehabber. I can't wait untthey come back and will be released in our backyard! Christopher Syfacunda, 9, Westlake Village

I want to tell you about my very special mom. She always helps my brother and me with our homework and other things. She let us keep squirrels we found in our yard. Too bad, we had to give them awayWhen a problem comes up my

mom will always find a good solution and be there for me. And thais why my mom is so special. JP Syfacunda, 11, Westlake Village

My mother is special for many reasons. She helps me with my homework. She lets me watch "CSI" every Saturday. Another special thing is that she takes me

places. She took me to the San Diego Zoo last week. It was really funMy mom always takes us to

Starbucks. My mom is the best person in the world.

Alex

My mother is special because she is nice to me. She takes care of me. She helps me. She loves me and I love her.

Casey

My mother is special because she is a pro golfer. She helppeople learn to play golf. Sometimes she takes me to Golf and Stuff. She takes care of me. Every day she teaches me to golf.

Zack

My mom is special because she loves me. My mom is special to me because she takes care of me and loves me. I love my mom and I hope she loves me too.

Amy

My mother is special because she is nice to me. She helps me with my homework. She takes care of me. I like when she buys me things! She buys me the food I likeShe lets me play with my friends. Cassandra My mother is special because she likes when I do division. She buys me toys. She helps me on homework.

Kevin

My mother is special because she lets me play outside. She lets me play my Xbox.

Chris

My mother is special because she helps me with my homework and takes care of me. I love my mom very much. She is smart, cooand funny. Happy Mother's Day.

Aly

Mom died in 1984. She's alive in my heart and thoughts every dayLosing her was devastating to me at the age of 24. What is amazing is the effect it has had on me as a mother of a now 17-year-old daughter. I teach her to make every day count, take nothing for granted. I see her turning into an amazing young woman because of the lessons my mom taught me. Mom lives on in my heart and now in my daughter. My mom continues to live through me and now through my daughter every day.

Karen Megling

Roses are red, Violets are gray, Dear Mom, we're not sure if you can hear us today; We love you so much, Each and every day, We want you to know, We're there for you, in our very own way; Dear Dad will be reading this poem to you, Today when he's there, Your entire family and friends, Want you to know how Much we All care; You've been the Best Wife, MomMom-in-Law, Grandmom, Aunt and friend, To All who have been blessed by knowing you, We All want you to Know that, We never want you to be blue: Happy Mother's Day, to our Very Special Mom! Nick and Sheree Adams Woodland Hills

My mommy is very nice. I like her because she tucks me in every night. If I'm sick or need her, she'lhelp me until I'm better. She is super fun to hang out with. She takes me shopping or maybe to watch a movie! Sometimes it's confusing in a store because I might lose track of her. I go around saying, "Momwhere are you?" Sometimessomeone else will answer me. Now I realize that I have to call her by her first name. I love my mommy very, very much.

Brittney Heller

My Mom: Sweet, Loyal, Beautiful, Funny and Nice are only a few words to describe my mom. The Greatest Woman On Earth!

Maddy Hosick

Thank you so much for bringing me to this country so I could go to college and live my dreams. You have always sacrificed. I love you more than I can tell you. Happy Mother's Day!

Romy

We admire your brave fight. Like we have always said, "We don'know anyone who is stronger ohas more courage." We just wanyou to know how much we love you. We are hoping that even though you are not feeling well, you will be able to enjoy a Happy Mother's Day.

Romy and Ben

Grandma: Happy Mother's DayWe love you!

Romy, Ben, Bula and Fred

When I think of a mom, I think of a person who is always there foyou. She is someone who believes in you and loves you no mattewhat. She gives you guidance and support. Mom, that's what you have been to me. I'm so glad you are my mom and that my kids get to have you as a grandma. We are blessedDanielle Cross Newbury Park

My mom is special because she is very brave, very kind, and almost everyone is her friend.

Cameron Bruno, 6

Mommy is sweet, kind and beautiful. She is someone who cares about me. She makes sure that I am safe. She brings me to school every day. She checks on me every night to make sure that I am safe and tucked in. She brings me to fun places. She cooks for me and sometimes makes me cookies.

Best of all my Mom loves me, and I love her bunches.

Elizabeth, 7

My mommy helps me open presents. She sings Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star to me every night. She takes me to fun places including dance class. She picks me up and gives me hugs when I am sad. She takes care of me when I am sick. Best of all she gives me hugs and kisses. Catherine, 4

My wife is the best Mom as evidenced by the adoration of her children and her husband. We all love her very much, and wish her a very special Mother's Day. Richard, an age

oo old to reveal

My mom is Gloria Swanson. My

our older brothers and myself share memories of a younger mom selling Fuller Brush and homemade donuts to earn extra money for her

amily. She's the mom who gave Flag Day parties, sewed Barbie dresses from old slips and girdles, and held Vacation Bible schools in our backyard. Our mom endured having three sons sent to Vietnam. They recall "care packages" full of "Fizzies."

Our mom is who you wish for as a friend, neighbor and patient. She continues to teach us courage. Mom was sent from above and for

his we say "Thank you!" Christina Rollins Newbury Park

My mom is a warrior. As kids she

ook us to school on her bicycle while others got dropped curbside

rom minivans. She nurtured our sense of imagination and adven

ure; tasted our mud pies and marveled at our sheet and pillow forts. Her carob pudding and sunflower seed cookies embarrassed us, but now, I treasure her creativity. She did things her way. This gave us character and gumption. It propelled me to go to Berkeley, move

o New York City, and deliver my son at home. Her fearlessness empowered us to trust ourselves,

ry the uncertain and enjoy life. Thanks mom. Elaine Newbury Park

My mommy helps me all day

ong. She pours cereal for me when

'm too little to pour myself. She brings HoneyBee crackers for me when I am hungry. She brushes my

eeth and takes me to bed. My mommy reads many, many books

or me, and gives me lots of kisses and hugs, and rubs my back, and says goodnight. My mommy was sitting in the front to watch me when

was dancing on stage at the Civic Arts Plaza. When I draw a beautiful picture for her, she really likes it. She takes pictures for me at the San Diego Zoo. I love my mommy so much. Eleanor Liu, 4, (typed by mom with minimal editing) Pinecrest pre-K class

My mom is great. She loves and supports. She prepares my equipment for all of my sports. I'm sorry, mom, for driving you crazy. Fight

ng with Joe and being lazy. Mom, have a great Mother's Day. With lots of love,

RJ

Good genes transfer. Faith trainng, love for America and family and

he power of positive things- ma

or things passed on to me makes my mother the greatest.

Praise for a job well done, even when not my best effort, assured her that I would do better next time.

In retrospect, I deserved most of the thrashings received or at

east they taught me what I should not do again.

Proof? Grandma lived past 105, mom past 88 and I am past 83, a proud father, twice retired, very ac

ive Rotarian who recently celebrated 61 wonderful years with a

antastic partner. Cyrus "Cy" Johnson Thousand Oaks

Janet Helen Wild, formerly of Thousand Oaks and Moorpark: 2007 is the 10th anniversary of her passing.

Everyone agrees she had a strong, friendly, gracious personal

ty and was the "Martha Stewart of Thousand Oaks."

She loved to work in her garden, bake goodies, prepare gourmet meals and could have been a pro

essional interior designer.

She was Jan of "Jan's Wedding Receptions and Party Planning."

She was the best grandma to her four grandchildren by sharing her time and teaching them life's values hands on.

She was the best mom by teaching her two daughters the life skills necessary to grow up to be women she was proud of. Susan Ashcraft Simi Valley

My mommy is definitely one of the best moms ever. She comforts me when I am lonely and makes me laugh when I am sad. If I ever have a bad day, my mommy always finds a way to help me forget my worries and become happy.

She helps me make the right decisions and I know that because of her I will lead a responsible life. definitely love my mommy more than anything else in the world. Jamie Lutz Newbury Park

Dear Momma,

I know that I don't tell you how much I love you enough,

I know that right now things are very tough

I know that you are the glue to our family,

I know that you are always there for me

I know that you are an amazing strong mother and person,

I know that our love will go on and on

I know that you are my world,

I know that you are mine, I know that I love you, and know that you are my momma.

I love you.

Happy Mother's Day! Sage Guilis Westlake Village

My mother has been more like my guardian angel,

She has never let me down.

She has been by my side through the hardest days of my lifeHer laughter can change my mood.

I love her caring words and her warm hugs.

She has become my best friend and my hero. I cherish my life more cause have her in it.

I can't thank her enough for how I feel inside.

I just know that she was sent to me to watch over me and love meI just want her to know that she is loved every single day of the year(My mother's name is Gayle Shaw) Kari Shaw Newbury Park

Ann Lane/Mom/Grandy: Happy Mother's Day and welcome to Westlake Village. Your children and grandchildren are so happy you're here. We know you will love your new home and we sure love having you close by. You are a very special mom and grandmotherEnjoy your day! Love, the Brennans and Russells Beth and Ed Brennan Westlake Village

Mom: Thanks for always being there for us, for never missing a phone call, for getting us Starbucks gift cards just to get through finals, for taking care of the two dogs we made you buy and then left you with, for calling us every night to say good night, for letting us fly home from grad school whenever we want to, for being the mom we always get to brag about, and for being the lady that we admire more than any other.

We love you so much and hope you have an amazing Mother's Day. Jackie and Kim Powell Westlake Village

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When we were younger we would ask why there wasn't a Kid's Day, like there was Mother's Day and Father's Day. You would say to us, "Well, because every day is Kid's Day" and it was, of course, an unsatisfying answer to us as small children.

Now that we are older and realize all that you have done for us, we think that one day a year for you is not nearly enough. Our lives may sometimes be busy, but we always remind ourselves of all you have given to us.

We would like to say, thank you, mom, for all that you have done. We love you! Happy Mother's Day. Irene Matias, Westlake Village Kenneth Tovar, Portland, Ore.

My mother passed two years ago in Louisville, Ky. She was a very special mom because she was the one person who kept all her children together. After she died, some of the eight brothers and sisters separated themselves from each other. I know mom would like all her children to at least be talking this Mother's Day.

I would like to send all my brothers and sisters a copy of The Acorn from California in recognition of our mom wishing we could all be family once again. May she rest in peace. We love you! Jeanetta Moore Westlake Village

My mom has to be the greatest mom alive. She has sacrificed a lot for my sister, brother and me. She has always put herself last when it comes to us- for that I am most grateful.

She works so hard to ensure that we are able to have the opportunities she never did. I do not know what I would do without her. I hope I make you proud every day because you do. To the most beautiful mom, both inside and out, Happy Mother's Day. I love you, mom. Crystina R. Valverde Thousand Oaks

This is written to my mother, Wallise Bolger, to show my love, appreciation and gratitude for all she has done for me and continues to do for me. She gives of herself unselfishly and always puts her family first. She is caring, loving, kind, generous and nurturing.

I am what I am today because of my mother. I am very fortunate to have her as my mother and as a role model. Mom, I cherish, adore and respect you with all my heart. Happy Mothers Day, I love you! Jenny Bolger Westlake Village

Our mom is special because years ago, when we were little, she wrote to The Acorn, writing as if she was us, to show us how important it is to recognize everything your mom does for you.

Well, now that we are older, we have taken on this task, to show how much we truly appreciate her. Words could never describe how special she is- without her, we would truly be lost. Happy Mother's Day, ma! Briana, Ari and Adam Galper Westlake Village

To Anne: The availability of a supporting and nonjudgmental ear, fun times, shared memories, the pleasure of building new memories, enjoyment of your company, an unwavering warm heart, great conversation, always a warm welcome, solid character, a hug at the right time, and insights into this journey called life.

These are just some of the reasons we love you so much. Perry, Bob and Laurie Westlake Village

Dear mom, You have raised me for 13 years. I love you so much. You're the best mom ever. When I was sick, you were there. You treat me like a little princess and I love that and always will. Now it's your turn to feel like a princess. I wrote you a poem with a lot of love:

Mom

How I love you so Please just please Watch me grow This isn't for me It's for you… So let me say

In this special way,

Happy Mother's Day! Laura Feinstein Newbury Park

My mother-in-law, Patsy Rae Mello, is the best. I have known her 38 years and there has never been a time she wasn't there. She once took me to lunch and bought me a gift with her last few dollars. She always volunteered to watch our three daughters with her vacation time from work so my husband and I could go on vacations. Any help with home projects, Patsy was there. She always remembered our various dogs with special treats when she came to visit. She is unfailingly loyal and supportive and the best friend I ever had. Sharyn Mello Thousand Oaks

Growing up, our family was jokingly refereed to as the Brady Bunch, I think in part because of how "perfect" it all seemed. My mom worked hard to make a great environment for our family. She just seemed to have the formula. Family, food, fun- it was all there with a fair amount of discipline and guidance. She encouraged us to be accountable and spread our wings but was always there to support us when our efforts failed. I am the person I am today because of you, mom. Deborah Pugliese Thousand Oaks

Mom is beautiful and she is like a butterfly. My mom takes love from her heart and gives it to me. My mom takes really good care of me and helps me do stuff. She plays sports and games with me. I am happy that I have my mom and she is the greatest.

She makes me good food and helps me with homework. She goes to my baseball games and says nice things to everybody like "Go, Mariners, good job." My mom is a good mom to me and I will always be her son. She is nice to everybody, too. I love you, mom! Sam Herbert, 5 Newbury Park

My mother, Bella, is special because she is the epitome of what a loving, nurturing, strong mother is. She is my rock and source of strength, especially when my oldest daughter was diagnosed with diabetes. She is my inspiration to always keep hope alive. Bella means "beautiful," but her beauty is not limited to the outside. Inside she shines with love, humor, kindness and wisdom.

The best compliment to me is when people tell me I'm a good mom. I tell them, "I learned it from the best!" Mom, thank you for being my best friend. I love you! Regina Shapiro

Westlake Village

My mom is special because she always loves me, never lets me down. She always takes care of me and I always love her. Taylor Weston Ogilvie, 8 Thousand Oaks

My mom is special to me for many reasons. The main reason is that she loves me. That's what really triggers all the other reasons. Katey Gould Newbury Park

My mom is special because she wakes me up every morning, makes me delicious meals, gets me to school, is caring, is nice, buys me toys and she loves me. Daniel Salvagni, 9

Thousand Oaks

Our mama's name is Nicole. She is special because she's pretty. She lets us have cookies and taste the dough. She lets us wash dishes for her and she makes us chocolate milk. She makes us waffles with whipped cream and lets us put our fingers in the whipped cream. She reads us stories and rocks us in the rocking chair. Most of all, our mama is special because she's our mama. Allison Hallock, 5 Tessa Hallock, 3 Westlake Village

Our mom, Lynn Goldfield, is the best mom ever because she loves and cares for us more than anyone we've ever met. She is the most important thing to us. Whenever we need her, she will be there. She is so kind and nice to anyone she meets and loves and treats everyone with respect.

She does so much work for us and we always appreciate everything she does. She will always make things so fun for us. We will always love her with all our heart and will love her forever. We love you, mom! Nick and Taylor Lovullo Thousand Oaks

When I was young, I didn't realize the enormity of my mother's task, especially with six children born within nine years. When I look back even now, I can't imagine how she maintained an immaculate home, cooked three meals daily and worked a full-time job. She always handled everything with great ease and no complaints.

Years later I learned my supermom's secret weapon. Because of her deep love for our family, she existed on only five hours of sleep at night. During the day she renewed herself with a 20-minute nap before walking over two miles to work. Joanne Botts Newbury Park

Firstly, thanks to all of the great moms out there who are constantly changing lives. I know my mom has. It's been hard for her lately as

've gone through many phases and new stages of life. I've put her

hrough hell and back but she's still with me through every step.

I know I don't always show appreciation or love, but I'm hoping

his might help. I just want you to know, mom, that you are all I have

n this lone world and I want you to know that even if it isn't obvious, you are my all. I love you so much! Sofie Malvar Newbury Park My mom takes care of us. She makes our food. She always sets up parties. She even helps us with homework. She gives us lots of love. I love her so much. She is the best mom in the world! Kate Fayloga, 7, Thousand Oaks

My mom is so special to me because the meals that she makes are healthy and nutritious. She loves me all the time. She cares about when I am sad. She showers me with hugs and kisses. She is very cute. She knows when to do things for me. She enjoys doing fun things with me. She came to snow camp with me. She knows what to do when it is sunny or rainy. Those are all the reasons I think my mom is special. Ariana Greenidge Thousand Oaks

I love you and I like to play with my mom, Ellen. Shelby Appice, 4, Thousand Oaks

I love my mommy and I like to play with my mom. I love to play games, also. I like my mom. My mom is funny. Jessica Appice, 5, Thousand Oaks

Our mom is caring, hardworking and an all-around great person. She always helps us with whatever we do. Although we haven't experienced raising children ourselves, we can imagine that it is very difficult and stressful. On top of that, she cooks almost every day and prepares our lunches for school. It may seem as if we take it for granted, but we want to let her know that we appreciate everything she does for us day in and day out. Tanner, Kendall and Spencer Newbury Park